Tool Box Talk No5

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COSHH

COSHH
Overview This talk will cover: risk assessment, hazards, control measures and safe use of
substances.

Risk Assessment
1 Management must carry out a risk assessment to find out whether:
• Exposure to a substance can be eliminated
• Aternative work methods can reduce exposure
• A less hazardous substance can be used
2 Any substance with a hazard warning label has the potential to cause harm – asses the risk before using it.

Hazards
1 How you could be affected by a hazardous substance:
• ingestion – eating contaminated food
• inhalation – breathing harmful dust or fumes
• absorption – chemicals entering through cuts etc.
2 Examples of hazardous substances on construction sites:
• contaminated ground
• concrete admixtures
• cement
• solvent fumes
• hardwood dust
• resins
• epoxy-based paints
• welding fumes
• asbestos
3 Don’t mix chemicals or substances

Control measures
1 When using hazardous substances, wear the correct PPE.
2 Know how to look after and use PPE correctly.
3 Know where washing and first-aid facilities are on site.
4 Ensure hazardous substances are put back into a secure location after use and not left out on site.

Use of substances
1 Make sure you are trained to use hazardous substances.
2 Read and comply with the information on the hazard data sheet and the instructions on the product label.
3 Don’t eat, drink or smoke when handling substances.
4 Don’t expose workers to fumes, dust, gas or other dangers from hazardous substances due to your work.
5 Always wash at the end of each shift and before eating.
 Tool Box Talk No5

Page 2 of 2
COSHH

REMEMBER: KNOW WHAT PPE TO WEAR TO PROTECT AGAINST THE HAZARD.

Do you have any questions for me?

NOTE: Failure to comply with safety instructions and RAMS and COSHH Assessments may result in disciplinary
actions

Serial Name Date of Toolbox Talk Signature Site

By signing this register you are confirming that you attended the toolbox talk and understand the
requirements for working safely with substances